Most of us take our muscles for granted, but they play a bigger role in our physical and mental health than most people realize. On this encore episode, we explore their cultural and scientific significance. We hear about the history of weight-lifting, along with how it went from niche hobby to medical treatment, and learn about the intricate biology and beauty of our muscles.
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The Science of Attraction and Dating
When we see surprising couples, like Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson, we can’t help but wonder what brought them together. In this podcast extra, we explore the mysteries of attraction and love. We talk with researcher Paul Eastwick about the idiosyncratic factors that go into attraction, and behavioral scientist Logan Ury coaches us on the science of optimizing online dating.
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Mars Mania: How America Became Obsessed with Mars
We think of Martians as belonging to the realm of sci-fi — but in the early 1900s, a radical idea swept the nation, scientists included: that Martians weren’t only real, they were intelligent beings with their own sophisticated civilization. On this episode, we hear about the astronomer who pushed “Mars Mania,” and a cautionary tale of what happens when belief trumps science.
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49:34
Why It’s Time to Rethink Productivity
It seems like we’re all constantly striving to be more productive — to find the right hacks or systems or habits that will allow us to squeeze more from our days. But is maximum productivity really desirable, or are we missing the bigger picture while running on that treadmill? On this episode, we look at productivity — what works, what doesn’t, and how we can redefine it in a changing world.
Go on an adventure into unexpected corners of the health and science world each week with award-winning host Maiken Scott. The Pulse takes you behind the doors of operating rooms, into the lab with some of the world's foremost scientists, and back in time to explore life-changing innovations. The Pulse delivers stories in ways that matter to you, and answers questions you never knew you had.